Former West Bromwich Albion defender Jonas Olsson has established a charity in his name in aid of helping some of India’s poorest children.

Olsson visited pupils at the Bapu School in the Bhagwanpura slum back in May 2016 to help launch the ‘Football for Health’ programme developed by Dheli-based charity Breathe Easy India, and the children there touched his heart so he decided to start his own foundation to work alongside Breathe Easy.

“As soon as I visited Bapu School I knew I would not be able to rest until I had done something significant to help the children there,” said Olsson

“We are not naive and know that their problems cannot be solved overnight.”

Football and education will be used to help improve living standard in the slum by ensuring children are happy, healthy and safe. Nutritious meals and regular medical examinations will be provided by the charity.

“Football is the driving force for the programme and will be the focus around which we implement a number of social projects, however, their needs are great and we know that sport alone will not assist them in their day-to-day lives.”

Jonas Olsson

“Sanitation, healthcare and nutrition are areas we are fully focused on improving. ”

Olsson is reaching out to Baggies fans for them to help out with The Jonas Olsson Foundation through donations of old football kits and equipment.

“During the football sessions I noticed the kids were wearing really terrible shoes. Mismatching, the wrong size, or completely destroyed, not one child had appropriate footwear. I hope there are Albion fans out there who can help with that.”

“This is going to be one hell of a journey Baggies fans and I need your help.”